Building an AR

Member

Spare me the details, but what are the key components needed to build an AR? I mean, are we talking about spending hours searching the web and online courses, looking for screws, springs, bolts, etc.? Or can it be done like a kit, as in A+B+C+D=EBR?

Also, what is the cost involved for building an AR with factory new parts from retail sources?

Member

You can get full kits, minus the stripped lower, from Del-Ton for $460 ish. M-aparts runs a little higher, but in the same range. Figure another $120 for a lower. These kits already have the upper assembled, all you need to do is put the lower together.

Active Member

Is there any particular reason why you want an AR? Since the Afgan and Iraq invasions ammo prices have more than doubled. I'm seriously thinking about getting an AK just so I have something "cheap" to shoot when I feel like "venting" 400 rds.

Active Member

I'm a big believer in "you get what you pay for" and I tend to favor good stuff. To that end, I usually wind up buying Colt when it comes to ARs.

There are a couple other good flavors out there though and I think the "best bang for the buck" right now is the complete LMT lowers. Dealer cost is $275, find an FFL that'll do something along the lines of cost +10% and you can be into a high quality complete lower for just over $300. Worried about an upcoming ban? At this point you have secured yourself a "pre-ban" serial number and haven't spent a ton-o-money. Best of all, you have high quality equipment at a very reasonable price.

As far as putting it together. The lower is done. You will need to find a complete upper or assemble the parts to make a complete upper. That upper (whichever way you decide to go) snaps onto the complete LMT lower, you just need to add ammo to shoot.

wichaka's offer is very kind; I'd take him up on it if you're looking to assemble the different various parts.

Member

Watch out when you install the pivot pin detent and spring. Mine was a real hassle and had to dig out of my daughters inflatable plastic ball pit, of course after the wife went to walmart and bought 400 balls for it. Trust me use the tool! Might want to get a pack of spare small parts just in case.

Active Member

Watch out when you install the pivot pin detent and spring. Mine was a real hassle and had to dig out of my daughters inflatable plastic ball pit, of course after the wife went to walmart and bought 400 balls for it. Trust me use the tool! Might want to get a pack of spare small parts just in case.

Click to expand...

Speaking of tools... are there any "special" tools needed for assembly or is it just your standard tool box type stuff that's needed?

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